South Africa’s biggest comedy night lit up The Lyric Theatre last night, as the country’s top comedic talent gathered for the 12th Annual Savanna Comics’ Choice Comedy Awards. Presented in partnership with Savanna Premium Cider, Mrs. Ball’s, One-eyed Jack, and Comedy Central, this year’s show proved that when it comes to delivering world class humour, Comics Do It Best.

Hosted by power duo Nina Hastie and Carvin H Goldstone, the show blended sharp wit, candid roasts, and heartfelt moments. From Nina’s cheeky wardrobe commentary to Carvin’s suit reveal, the evening kicked off with charm, chemistry, and just the right amount of chaos.

Show highlights included a bold parody musical performance of “Cherry Eyi’ One” by Savanna Comics’ Choice Comedy Awards winner, Vafa Naraghi and friends, turning a classic R&B love triangle into an ode to Mrs. Ball’s Chutney. Yum.

KG Mokgadi transformed the news into a comedy set that included jabs at SA politics, and refugee jokes that had the audience rolling — reminding everyone that “comics do news best.”

Mashabela Galane proved he really does it best, presenting the Joe Mafela Award after a five-minute set that reminded the audience why he’s a national treasure.

The Savanna Comics’ Choice Comedy Award winners for 2025 are:

• Breakthrough Act of the Year Award: Khanyisa JamJam
• Best Comedy Festival or Show Award: That’s Not Funny: Moveable Feast Comedy Night
• The Eb Award, presented by Savanna Premium Cider: Khanyisile Ngwenya 
• Best Solo Show Award: Robby Collins, Come As You Are Tour

• Innovative Comedy Performance Award: Céline Tshika
• Sauce of the Year Award, presented by Mrs. Ball’s: Noko Mashaba
• Joe Mafela Award: King Flat
• Headliner of the Year Award: Robby Collins
• Winners’ Choice Award: Sifiso Nene
• Comedian of the Year Award: Celeste Ntuli